Chapter 196

After a leisurely breakfast of fluffy Belgian waffles and crisp bacon with Zavian, followed by a long, steamy shower where they’d indulged in one last lingering tryst, Emmeline finally returned home.

Her mind was utterly consumed with the memories of their intimate Christmas Eve together - every scorching caress, every sinful whisper, every moment seared into her memory with perfect clarity.

Luckily, Richard didn’t seem to suspect a thing when she arrived. Minnie had covered for her brilliantly.

Emmeline had barely managed to exchange some words with Richard before practically sprinting up the stairs, murmuring some excuse about needing to freshen up after her night out.

She locked herself in the bathroom and braced her trembling hands on the vanity, staring at her flushed, desire-glazed reflection for a long moment as the memories washed over her again in dizzying waves.

The way Zavian had pinned her against the wall, one hand fisted in her hair as the